On 24 February, John Blake, Director of Fair Access and Participation at the Office for Students, accompanied by Esme Gilmour, a Leadership Development Officer, visited Bath. They met with senior leaders from both the University and the Students’ Union to review our progress in implementing the new Access and Participation Plan (APP) and to discuss the innovative initiatives that underpin our commitment to fair access and participation. As one of the first 34 providers to submit a new APP as part of ‘wave 1’ of submissions, Bath is well placed to showcase how this new style plan has changed our institutional approach.
Engaging with Senior Leaders and Showcasing Innovative Initiatives
During the visit, John and Esme engaged in in‐depth discussions with senior management and Student Union representatives. These conversations not only provided valuable insights into our progress but also offered an opportunity to showcase the key initiatives that are reshaping the student experience at Bath. The delegation was particularly interested in our proactive measures—from contextual offers and enhanced outreach initiatives designed to support access, to targeted strategies such as the new Claverton Scholarship, which supports students to continue and complete their studies. They were also keen to explore our Employability Strategy, which equips students with practical workplace experience through placements, internships, and the newly launched Bath Insights Programme.
Engaging with the Students’ Union
During the visit, John and Esme met with the SU President, the SU Education Officer, and other SU staff. They discussed the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, explored current engagement mechanisms—such as the NSS—and considered how students can contribute to shaping the OfS strategy. First-hand accounts from a group of students, including representatives from Diversity & Support groups, the 93% Club, and bursary recipients, provided valuable insights into the challenges they are currently facing. Additionally, the Students’ Union presented their new report, ‘Together We Shape Tomorrow’, to the OfS.
Our Access and Participation Plan
At the heart of our efforts is the University’s Access and Participation Plan (APP), which runs until July 2028. The APP identifies challenges related to ensuring equality for under‐represented student groups and sets out detailed action plans to overcome them. Our goal is to ensure that every student can benefit from a Bath education and transition successfully into graduate employment, thereby reducing inequality and enabling everyone to achieve their full potential.
A Commitment Beyond Compliance
While our access and participation commitments are a regulatory requirement with the OfS, our approach extends far beyond compliance. The University is dedicated to supporting local and regional communities, and we strive to share the research and insights generated here across the sector to influence best practice. This broader approach underpins our belief that a truly inclusive education system benefits not only our students but society as a whole. The visit by John Blake and Esme Gilmour has reinforced our resolve to continue driving forward our initiatives. Their engagement and feedback highlight the transformational work being done at Bath and our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and forward-thinking educational environment.
More information
To find out more, the University’s Access and Participation Plan can be read at - http://go.bath.ac.uk/access-and-participation-plan